BENSON — Neal Hollis Bartholomew, 73, died April 15, 2014, at his home surrounded by loved ones after a 12-year-long battle with glucagonoma, a rare form of pancreatic cancer.

Neal was born September 29, 1940, in Benson, the son of Clyde and Florence (Munger) Bartholomew. He graduated from Fair Haven High School in 1959, and married the former Betty Anne Colvin on October 25, 1971.

Neal dedicated his life in blood, sweat and tears to the family farm in Benson. He served his community on the planning commission and school board, as a fence viewer, through his involvement with the Benson Youth League, and with his leadership of the Benson Fish and Game Club. He was a person who savored life’s pleasures, enjoying hunting, fishing, bowling, poker, playing baseball, square dancing and nature in all its glory. Long hours spent at Cold Springs on Lake Champlain brought him peace and solace. He was also an avid Boston Red Sox fan who wasn’t afraid to express his opinion of questionable calls.

Neal is survived by his wife, Betty, his daughter, Morgan, and his son, Nathan, all of Benson; by his siblings Janice Case of Poultney, Donald Bartholomew (Clare) of Benson, Richard Bartholomew (Patricia) of Fairfax, Jane Durfee (Robert) of Fairport NY, Thomas Bartholomew of Benson, Sandra Bernstein of Fort Kent, Maine, Dean Bartholomew (Sharon) of Mineola, NY, Peter Bartholomew (Jeanne) of Benson, Daphne Bartholomew of Benson and Kirk Bartholomew (Catherine) of Middletown, Conn.; and also by a large extended family. He was predeceased by his father and mother.

Neal’s life will be celebrated at the United Church of Benson at 11 a.m Saturday, April 19, 2014.

Friends may call at Durfee Funeral Home in Fair Haven from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 18, 2014

Memorial contributions may be made to the Benson Fish and Game in care of Mathew Foley (7 Washington Street, Fair Haven VT 05743) or the United Church of Benson (P.O. BOX 186, Benson VT 05731).